Creating Immune Equilibrium & Resilience: Nutritional Approaches to Optimize ACE2 Signaling Cascades

Dr. Leo Galland presents a deep dive into the crucial role of ACE2 (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2) in immune balance, inflammation control, and resilience against infections like COVID-19. This presentation explores how ACE2 functions, its relationship with viral infections, and ways to optimize its signaling through diet, supplements, and lifestyle strategies.

Understanding the Role of ACE2 in the Body

What is ACE2?

ACE2 is a transmembrane enzyme found in multiple tissues, including:
✅ Vascular endothelium (blood vessels)
✅ Heart & kidneys
✅ Lungs & small intestine
✅ Brain & immune cells

ACE2 plays a counter-regulatory role in the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) by breaking down Angiotensin II (pro-inflammatory, vasoconstrictive) into Angiotensin 1-7 (anti-inflammatory, vasodilatory, and protective).

ACE2's Vital Functions:

✔️ Reduces inflammation & oxidative stress
✔️ Prevents excessive immune activation (cytokine storms)
✔️ Supports cardiovascular, neurological, and pulmonary health
✔️ Promotes gut microbiome balance
✔️ Aids in amino acid absorption & serotonin production

ACE2 & COVID-19

• ACE2 is the cellular receptor for SARS-CoV-2, meaning the virus binds to ACE2 to enter human cells.

• Viral entry leads to ACE2 depletion, creating an imbalance in the immune system and driving inflammation, thrombosis, and tissue damage.

• ACE2 deficiency is a major factor in Long Covid symptoms and complications such as cardiovascular disease, fatigue, brain fog, and gut dysbiosis.

ACE2 Signaling Pathways & Immune Regulation

ACE2 interacts with two major systems that regulate inflammation and immune function:

1. The Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS)

• Angiotensin II triggers inflammation, fibrosis, and oxidative stress.

• ACE2 converts Angiotensin II into Angiotensin 1-7, which:
  ✅ Reduces inflammation
  ✅ Protects blood vessels
  ✅ Supports immune balance

2. The Kinin System (Bradykinin Storms)

• Bradykinin is a peptide that regulates blood pressure, pain, and vascular permeability.

• ACE2 breaks down inflammatory bradykinin derivatives to prevent excessive inflammation.

• Loss of ACE2 leads to "Bradykinin Storms"—excessive vasodilation, vascular leakage, and inflammation, contributing to Covid-19 complications.

Factors That Influence ACE2 Function

📈 Factors That INCREASE ACE2 Expression & Function:
✅ Vitamin D (enhances ACE2 protein levels)
✅ Curcumin & Resveratrol (boost ACE2 and reduce inflammation)
✅ Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) (protects ACE2 from degradation)
✅ Aerobic & High-Intensity Exercise (stimulates ACE2 production)
✅ Omega-3 Fatty Acids (reduce inflammation and support ACE2 function)
✅ Azithromycin & ARBs (like Losartan) (increase ACE2 levels)

📉 Factors That DECREASE ACE2 Expression & Function:
❌ High-fructose diets & hyperglycemia (suppress ACE2)
❌ Inflammatory cytokines (IL-13, TNF-α) (downregulate ACE2)
❌ Aldosterone & Androgens (reduce ACE2 in key tissues)
❌ Influenza & SARS-CoV-2 infections (lead to ACE2 depletion)

Natural Strategies to Enhance ACE2 Function & Immune Resilience

To optimize ACE2 signaling and promote immune equilibrium, Dr. Galland recommends:

1. Key Supplements to Boost ACE2 & Reduce Inflammation

SupplementBenefitsRecommended DoseVitamin DEnhances ACE2 function & immune balance5,000–10,000 IU/dayCurcumin (Turmeric Extract)Increases ACE2 expression, reduces inflammation1,000 mg/dayResveratrolProtects blood vessels, enhances ACE2 activity1,200 mg/dayAlpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)Reduces oxidative stress & preserves ACE2600 mg/dayOmega-3 Fatty AcidsSupports cardiovascular & immune health2,000–3,000 mg/dayLuteolin & ThymoquinoneDownregulate inflammatory IL-13 & protect ACE2100–300 mg/dayAstragalus PolysaccharidesIncrease mass receptor activity, mimic ACE2 benefits500 mg/day

2. Nutrition & Dietary Approaches

🍓 High-Polyphenol Foods (berries, green tea, dark chocolate)
🥦 Anti-Inflammatory Diet (vegetables, turmeric, olive oil, nuts)
🥕 Avoid Processed Sugar & High-Fructose Corn Syrup
🥛 Consume Probiotics & Fermented Foods (support gut & immune health)

3. Exercise & Lifestyle Interventions

🏃‍♂️ High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) & Aerobic Exercise (boost ACE2 levels)
🧘‍♀️ Breathwork & Stress Reduction (reduce inflammation)
☀️ Sun Exposure (natural Vitamin D production)

The Future of ACE2 Research & Clinical Applications

• Human trials on ACE2 therapies are ongoing, focusing on:
  🔬 Recombinant ACE2 administration for COVID-19 recovery
  🔬 Angiotensin 1-7 supplementation for inflammation control
  🔬 ACE2-targeted drugs for cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases

By supporting ACE2 function through diet, lifestyle, and targeted supplements, we can:
✅ Reduce inflammation & immune dysregulation
✅ Enhance resilience against viral infections
✅ Protect cardiovascular, neurological, and gut health

Final Takeaways

• ACE2 plays a vital role in immune balance, vascular health, and inflammation control.

• COVID-19 depletes ACE2, leading to increased inflammation and complications.

• Natural strategies like Vitamin D, Curcumin, Resveratrol, and exercise can enhance ACE2 signaling.

• A balanced diet, avoiding high fructose, and supporting gut health are key for immune resilience.

By implementing these strategies, we can strengthen immune equilibrium and optimize long-term health.